Counselling 

The therapy I provide is influenced by the belief that all individuals are basically healthy. When people are connected to their basic healthiness they generally enjoy life, experience growth, and have good relationships. Well-intentioned coping strategies sometimes result in unhealthy patterns. These patterns and their consequences might leave an individual feeling disconnected from their basic health. I see the therapeutic role as providing a place for people to identify what their health and well being looks and feels like, how it manifests already in their lives and how to bring that health to the issues that are currently presenting for them. I believe it is the individual who directs and does the work in therapy. The therapist is a witness to the individual's growth, bringing skills, support and information as the need presents.

My work is influenced by the integration of several different forms of psychotherapy as well as holistic and contemplative approaches. I am a Certified EMDR Practitioner and EMDRIA Approved EMDR Consultant.

 I am interested in what the person is experiencing in their mind, and maintain an interest in how that interfaces with what they experience in their physical body, spiritual life, their environment, relationships, etc. I believe goals are important in counselling as a way of inspiring movement and hope. 

I work with individuals, couples and groups of any age. My counselling experience dates back to 1979 and my experience includes work with addictions, mental health, trauma recovery, stress management, occupational and life transitions and work with children and families. I am sensitive to, and have experience working with cross-cultural issues and gay and lesbian individuals and couples. I have also spent a significant amount of time working with first nations individuals and communities.

I believe the counselling relationship begins best with a good human connection. It is difficult to imagine powerful work being done without that connection. The initial session is an opportunity for the individual and the therapist to assess the fit between them. It is also an opportunity to explore the issues and goals that the individual might wish to work with during therapy. If there is a good fit between the individual, the therapist, and the goals then there is a solid foundation from which powerful changes can occur.